Fluorescent phospholipid ether compounds, compositions, and methods of use

ABSTRACT

The invention generally relates to novel fluorescent phospholipid compounds, compositions comprising these compounds, and diagnostic methods utilizing these compounds. A preferred compound of the present invention has the following structural formula: (I)

RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a national stage filing under 35 U.S.C. §371 of International PCT Patent Application No. PCT/US2010/034361, filed May 11, 2010, entitled “Fluorescent Phospholipid Ether Compounds, Compositions, and Methods of Use,” by Pinchuk et al., which is a continuation-in-part of each of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/463,983, filed May 11, 2009, entitled “Use of Fluorescent Phospholipid Ether Compounds in Biopsies,” by Pinchuk et al.; U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/463,978, filed May 11, 2009, entitled “Fluorescent Imaging of Tumors Using Phospholipid Ether Compounds,” by Pinchuk et al.; U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/463,970, filed May 11, 2009, entitled “Fluorescent Phospholipid Ether Compounds and Compositions,” by Pinchuk et al.; U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/463,990, filed May 11, 2009, entitled “Fluorescent Imaging of Skin Cancers Using Phospholipid Ether Compounds,” by Pinchuk et al.; and U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/463,998, filed May 11, 2009, entitled “Fluorescent Phospholipid Ether Compounds, Compositions, and Methods of Use,” by Pinchuk et al. Each of these is incorporated herein by reference.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The invention generally relates to fluorescent tumor-selective phospholipid ether (PLE) compounds, compositions comprising these compounds, and methods of using these compounds and compositions in various diagnostic applications.

BACKGROUND

It is known that earlier tumor detection leads to the improvement of long-term survival. Therefore, the development of more selective and noninvasive tumor diagnostic techniques is a high priority. Fluorescent imaging has proven to be an efficient tool for preclinical cancer research, antitumor drug discovery and pharmacological developments by providing images of the bio-distribution of fluorescent markers. By tagging regions of interest with tumor-specific fluorescent molecular probes, this technique enables visualization of location and geometries of malignant areas.

The fundamental barriers to optical imaging in tissue are high light scattering, autofluorescence, and high absorption by hemoglobin in the mid-visible band. Use of red and near-infrared light is the most basic step towards improved imaging. Moving to near-infrared wavelengths (700-1100 nm) confers other advantages for imaging mammalian tissues: less background fluorescence is excited, since autofluorescence in tissues is mostly excited by near ultraviolet and blue light; and less autofluorescence interferes, since fluorescence from most mammalian tissues peaks in the yellow and is very low beyond 650 nm. (Ballou B, Ernst L A, Waggoner A S. Curr. Med. Chem., 2005, 12, 795-805; Fabian J, Nakazumi H, Matsuoka M. Chem. Rev., 1992, 92, 1197-1226). The use of near-IR fluorescence improves in many ways the performance of fluorescence-based biological assays. For example, the near-IR fluorescence provides: 1) significant reduction of background autofluorescence; 2) deeper light penetration; 3) minimal photodamage to biological tissue; 4) less sensitivity to the optical properties of the media. A good fluorescent label should have large extinction coefficient, high fluorescent quantum yield and high photostability.

Endoscopy, in particular, colonoscopy and bronchoscopy, is utilized to find abnormal growth and tumors protruding into the lumen. A device, called endoscope, is inserted into a body cavity. Traditionally, endoscopes use a daylight channel, i.e. the observer sees all finding at the wavelength of naturally occurring light.

Lately, newer endoscopes have the ability to utilize several channels, i.e. a daylight channel and one or more additional channels at other light wavelengths. These additional channels are used to monitor either naturally occurring fluorescence or fluorescence of a dye that was either injected into the body or sprayed onto the body cavity surface. One of the possible channels is in the NIR (near infrared) area. The advantage of the NIR area is that the light absorption in the NIR area (usually 600-800 nm) is minimal, and fluorescence can be detected at a depth of a few millimeters to nearly a centimeter beneath the surface of the body cavity. It is believed that this has advantages to detect tumors and lymph node metastases in organs such as colon and lung.

Accordingly, the need exists to further explore the uses of near infrared fluorescence in detecting malignancies during the endoscopic process.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The invention generally relates to phospholipid ether (PLE) compounds, compositions comprising these compounds, and the use of the compounds and/or compositions in diagnosis of various malignancies.

In one embodiment, the present invention relates to phospholipid fluorescent compounds according to formulas (I)-(VI):

wherein n is an integer between 7 and 23;

Y is H, Me or Et;

Z is a fluorophore; and

X is selected from the group consisting of

In a preferred embodiment, Z is selected from the following:

wherein R is selected from the group consisting of H, Me, Et, Br and I.

-   -   Q is selected from the group consisting of N, CH, C-Me, C-Et,         C—CF₃, C-Ph     -   R¹ is selected from the group consisting of

-   -   L is selected from the group consisting of O, S, NH and NMe;     -   R² is selected from the group consisting of H, Me, and Et;     -   R³ is selected from the group consisting of H, OMe, OEt, and         NMe₂;     -   R⁴ is selected from the group consisting of H, Me, Et, Ph or         p-methoxy-phenyl; and     -   m is an integer from 1 to 5.

-   -    (or other positively charged fluorophores) may also include a         negatively charged counterion, such as Cl⁻.

wherein R⁵ is selected from the group consisting of H, Me, Et, Br and I;

-   -   R⁶ is selected from the group consisting of H, Me, Et,         p-methoxy-phenyl,     -   p-(N,N-dimethylamino)-phenyl and

-   -    wherein R⁷ is selected from the group consisting of H, Me, OMe,         and Me₂N.

wherein n is an integer between 7 and 23;

-   -   m is an integer between 0 and 4;     -   X is selected from the group consisting of O, S, CMe₂, and         C═CH₂;     -   Y is selected from the group consisting of Me, Et, Pr, i-Pr and

wherein is an integer between 0 and 4;

-   -   X is selected from the group consisting of O, S, CMe₂ and C═CH₂;     -   Y is selected from the group consisting of Me, Et, Pr and i-Pr;     -   R⁸ is selected from the group consisting of

-   -   wherein n is an integer between 7 and 23; and     -   Z is selected from the group consisting of

wherein n is an integer between 7 and 23

-   -   R⁹ is selected from the group consisting of Me, Et and

-   -   Z is selected from the group consisting of

In a preferred embodiment, the invention relates to a compound having a formula:

The invention also generally relates to compositions comprising the compounds of the present invention.

The invention also generally relates to various methods of using the compounds of the present invention, including, but not limited to, endoscopic determination of the presence of internal malignancy; visual and/or microscopically added determination of the presence of malignant lesions on the skin; aiding in the selection of biopsy tissues in internal and skin malignancies; determination of the presence of internal and/or skin malignancies during surgeries to aid the complete biopsy and/or surgical resection of said malignancies.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 a depicts skin melanoma (A375) cells after 24 hour incubation with CLR1501;

FIG. 1 b depicts normal skin (704sk) cells after 24 hour incubation with CLR1501;

FIG. 2 a depicts skin melanoma (A375) cells after 0.5 hour incubation with CLR1501;

FIG. 2 b depicts skin melanoma (A375) cells after 1 hour incubation with CLR1501;

FIG. 2 c depicts colorectal adenocarcinoma (HCT-116) cells after 24 hour incubation with CLR1501;

FIG. 2 d depicts uterine carcinoma (MES SA/Dx5) cells after 24 hour incubation with CLR1501;

FIG. 2 e depicts pancreatic carcinoma (Mia Paca-2) cells after 24 hour incubation with CLR1501;

FIG. 2 f depicts pancreatic carcinoma (Panc-1) cells after 24 hour incubation with CLR1501;

FIG. 2 g depicts ovarian adenocarcinoma (Ovcar-3) cells after 24 hour incubation with CLR1501;

FIG. 2 h depicts ovarian adenocarcinoma (Ovcar-3) cells after 24 hour incubation with CLR1501;

FIG. 2 i depicts glioblastoma (U-87MG) cells after 24 hour incubation with CLR1501;

FIG. 2 j depicts normal fibroblast (NFA) cells after 24 hour incubation with CLR1501;

FIG. 2 k depicts clear cell carcinoma (Caki 2) cells after 24 hour incubation with CLR1501;

FIG. 2 l depicts prostate adenocarcinoma (PC3) cells after 24 hour incubation with CLR1501;

FIG. 3 depicts glioblastoma (U-87MG) cells after 48 hour incubation with CLR1501;

FIG. 4 depicts co-localization of CLR1501 with Normal Fibroblast (NFA) and prostate adenocarcinoma (PC3) cells;

FIG. 5 depicts co-localization of CLR1501 with Normal Fibroblast (NFA) and clear cell carcinoma (Caki 2) cells;

FIG. 6 depicts an image of an athymic nude mice inoculated with pancreatic carcinoma and injected with a composition comprising CLR1501;

FIG. 7 depicts images of excised tumors of mice injected with CLR1501;

FIG. 8 depicts tumor co-localization of CLR1502 in human colorectal carcinoma (HCT-116) tumor bearing mouse;

FIG. 9 depicts tumor co-localization of CLR1501 in de-skinned pancreatic carcinoma (Panc-1) tumor bearing mouse; and

FIG. 10 depicts tumor co-localization of CLR1501 in de-skinned pancreatic carcinoma (Panc-1) tumor bearing mouse as shown using Kodak X-Sight 761

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

As used herein, the term “alkyl” includes straight chained and branched hydrocarbon groups containing the indicated number of carbon atoms, typically methyl, ethyl, and straight chain and branched propyl and butyl groups. The term “alkyl” also encompasses cycloalkyl, i.e., a cyclic C₃-C₈ hydrocarbon group, such as cyclopropyl, cyclobutyl, cyclopentyl, and cyclohexyl. Reference to an individual group or moiety, such as “propyl,” embraces only the straight chain group or moiety. A branched chain isomer, such as “isopropyl,” is specifically referred to.

“Me” refers to methyl.

“Et ” refers to ethyl.

“Ph” refers to phenyl.

“Pr” refers to propyl.

“i-Pr” refers to iso-propyl.

The singular articles “a”, “an,” and “the” include plural reference unless specifically indicated or unless it is clear from the context that only the singular form is possible.

The terms “phospholipid ether compound” and “phospholipid compound” are used interchangeably for the purposes of the present application.

In one embodiment, the present invention generally relates to fluorescent PLE compounds and various methods of their use for malignancy determination and other uses.

In one embodiment, the invention generally refers to phospholipid fluorescent dyes according to formulas (I)-(VI):

wherein n is an integer between 7 and 23;

Y is H, Me or Et;

Z is a fluorophore; and

X is selected from the group consisting of

In a preferred embodiment, Z is selected from the following:

wherein R is selected from the group consisting of H, Me, Et, Br and I.

-   -   Q is selected from the group consisting of N, CH, C-Me, C-Et,         C—CF₃, C-Ph     -   R¹ is selected from the group consisting of

-   -   L is selected from the group consisting of O, S, NH and NMe;     -   R² is selected from the group consisting of H, Me, and Et;     -   R³ is selected from the group consisting of H, OMe, OEt, and         NMe₂;     -   R⁴ is selected from the group consisting of H. Me, Et, Ph or         p-methoxy-phenyl; and     -   m is an integer from 1 to 5.

-   -    (or other positively charged fluorophores) may also include a         negatively charged counterion, such as Cl⁻.

wherein R⁵ is selected from the group consisting of H, Me, Et, Br and I;

-   -   R⁶ is selected from the group consisting of H, Me, Et,         p-methoxy-phenyl,     -   p-(N,N-dimethylamino)-phenyl and

-   -    wherein R⁷ is selected from the group consisting of H, Me, OMe,         and Me₂N.

wherein n is an integer between 7 and 23;

-   -   m is an integer between 0 and 4;     -   X is selected from the group consisting of O, S, CMe₂, and         C═CH₂;     -   Y is selected from the group consisting of Me, Et, Pr, i-Pr and

wherein m is an integer between 0 and 4;

-   -   X is selected from the group consisting of O, S, CMe₂ and C═CH₂;     -   Y is selected from the group consisting of Me, Et, Pr and i-Pr;     -   R⁸ is selected from the group consisting of

-   -   wherein n is an integer between 7 and 23; and     -   Z is selected from the group consisting of

wherein n is an integer between 7 and 23

-   -   R⁹ is selected from the group consisting of Me, Et and

-   -   Z is selected from the group consisting of

Presently preferred compounds include:

The particularly preferred compounds are

It is to be understood that the presence of counterions (e.g., Cl^(⊖)) is optional, and the invention encompasses compounds with and without counterions.

The fluorescent compounds according to the present invention generally exhibit fluorescence at a wavelength of about 300 nm to about 1000 nm. In one embodiment, the first wavelength is about 400 nm to about 900 nm. Also, the second wavelength is about 400 nm to 1100 nm.

It is to be understood that the present invention encompasses the compounds in any racemic, optically-active, polymorphic, or stereroisomeric forms, or mixtures thereof. In one embodiment, the fluorescent phospholipid compounds may include pure (R)-isomers, In another embodiment, the fluorescent phospholipid compounds may include pure (S)-isomers. In another embodiment, the fluorescent phospholipid compounds may include a mixture of the (R) and the (S) isomers. In another embodiment, the fluorescent phospholipid compounds may include a racemic mixture comprising both (R) and (S) isomers. It is well known in the art how to prepare optically-active forms (for example, by resolution of the racemic form by recrystallization techniques, by synthesis from optically-active starting materials, by chiral synthesis, or by chromatographic separation using a chiral stationary phase).

The compounds of the invention can exist in unsolvated as well as solvated forms, including hydrated forms, e.g., hemi-hydrate. In general, the solvated forms, with pharmaceutically acceptable solvents such as water, ethanol, and the like are equivalent to the unsolvated forms for the purposes of the invention.

Preferably, the compounds of the invention are ambiphilic.

Certain compounds of the invention also form pharmaceutically acceptable salts, e.g., acid addition salts. For example, the nitrogen atoms may form salts with acids. Examples of suitable acids for salt formation are hydrochloric, sulfuric, phosphoric, acetic, citric, oxalic, malonic, salicylic, malic, furmaric, succinic, ascorbic, maleic, methanesulfonic and other mineral carboxylic acids well known to those in the art. The salts are prepared by contacting the free base form with a sufficient amount of the desired acid to produce a salt in the conventional manner. The free base forms may be regenerated by treating the salt with a suitable dilute aqueous base solution such as dilute aqueous hydroxide potassium carbonate, ammonia, and sodium bicarbonate. The free base forms differ from their respective salt forms somewhat in certain physical properties, such as solubility in polar solvents, but the acid salts are equivalent to their respective free base forms for purposes of the invention. (See, for example S. M. Berge, et al., “Pharmaceutical Salts,” J. Pharm. Sci., 66: 1-19 (1977).

Suitable pharmaceutically acceptable salts of the compounds of this invention include acid addition salts which may, for example, be formed by mixing a solution of the compound according to the invention with a solution of a pharmaceutically acceptable acid such as hydrochloric acid, sulfuric acid, methanesulfonic acid, fumaric acid, maleic acid, succinic acid, acetic acid, benzoic acid, oxalic acid, citric acid, tartaric acid, carbonic acid or phosphoric acid. Furthermore, where the compounds of the invention carry an acidic moiety, suitable pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof may include alkali metal salts, e.g. sodium or potassium salts, alkaline earth metal salts, e.g. calcium or magnesium salts; and salts formed with suitable organic ligands, e.g. quaternary ammonium salts.

The compounds of the present invention can be used in the form of pharmaceutically acceptable salts derived from inorganic or organic acids. The phrase “pharmaceutically acceptable salt” means those salts which are, within the scope of sound medical judgment, suitable for use in contact with the tissues of humans and lower animals without undue toxicity, irritation, allergic response and the like and are commensurate with a reasonable benefit/risk ratio. Pharmaceutically acceptable salts are well-known in the art. For example, S. M. Berge et al. describe pharmaceutically acceptable salts in detail in J. Pharmaceutical Sciences, 1977, 66: 1 et seq. The salts can be prepared in situ during the final isolation and purification of the compounds of the invention or separately by reacting a free base function with a suitable organic acid. Representative acid addition salts include, but are not limited to acetate, adipate, alginate, citrate, aspartate, benzoate, benzenesulfonate, bisulfate, butyrate, camphorate, camphorsulfonate, digluconate, glycerophosphate, hemisulfate, heptanoate, hexanoate, fumarate, hydrochloride, hydrobromide, hydroiodide, 2-hydroxyethansulfonate (isothionate), lactate, maleate, methanesulfonate, nicotinate, 2-naphthalenesulfonate, oxalate, palmitoate, pectinate, persulfate, 3-phenylpropionate, picrate, pivalate, propionate, succinate, tartrate, thiocyanate, phosphate, glutamate, bicarbonate, p-toluenesulfonate and undecanoate. Also, the basic nitrogen-containing groups can be quaternized with such agents as lower alkyl halides such as methyl, ethyl, propyl, and butyl chlorides, bromides and iodides; dialkyl sulfates like dimethyl, diethyl, dibutyl and diamyl sulfates; long chain halides such as decyl, lauryl, myristyl and stearyl chlorides, bromides and iodides; arylalkyl halides like benzyl and phenethyl bromides and others. Water or oil-soluble or dispersible products are thereby obtained. Examples of acids which can be employed to form pharmaceutically acceptable acid addition salts include such inorganic acids as hydrochloric acid, hydrobromic acid, sulphuric acid and phosphoric acid and such organic acids as oxalic acid, maleic acid, succinic acid and citric acid.

Basic addition salts can be prepared in situ during the final isolation and purification of compounds of this invention by reacting a carboxylic acid-containing moiety with a suitable base such as the hydroxide, carbonate or bicarbonate of a pharmaceutically acceptable metal cation or with ammonia or an organic primary, secondary or tertiary amine. Pharmaceutically acceptable salts include, but are not limited to, cations based on alkali metals or alkaline earth metals such as lithium, sodium, potassium, calcium, magnesium and aluminum salts and the like and nontoxic quaternary ammonia and amine cations including ammonium, tetramethylammonium, tetraethylammonium, methylammonium, dimethylammonium, trimethylammonium, triethylammonium, diethylammonium, and ethylammonium among others. Other representative organic amines useful for the formation of base addition salts include ethylenediamine, ethanolamine, diethanolamine, piperidine, piperazine and the like.

Where the compounds according to the invention have at least one asymmetric center, they may accordingly exist as enantiomers. Where the compounds according to the invention possess two or more asymmetric centers, they may additionally exist as diastereoisomers. It is to be understood that all such isomers and mixtures thereof in any proportion are encompassed within the scope of the present invention.

The invention also includes N-oxides of the amino substituents of the compounds described herein. Pharmaceutically acceptable salts can also be prepared from the phenolic compounds by treatment with inorganic bases, for example, sodium hydroxide. Also, esters of the phenolic compounds can be made with aliphatic and aromatic carboxylic acids, for example, acetic acid and benzoic acid esters.

A “diagnostically effective amount” means an amount of a compound that, when administered to a subject for screening for tumors, is sufficient to provide a detectable distinction between a benign structure and a malignant tumor. The “diagnostically effective amount” will vary depending on the compound, the condition to be detected, the severity or the condition, the age and relative health of the subject, the route and form of administration, the judgment of the attending medical or veterinary practitioner, and other factors.

A compound of the present invention is administered to a subject in a diagnostically effective amount. A compound of the present invention can be administered alone or as part of a pharmaceutically acceptable composition. In addition, a compound or composition can be administered all at once, as for example, by a bolus injection, multiple times, such as by a series of tablets, or delivered substantially uniformly over a period of time, as for example, using transdermal delivery. It is also noted that the dose of the compound can be varied over time. A compound of the present invention can be administered using an immediate release formulation, a controlled release formulation, or combinations thereof. The term “controlled release” includes sustained release, delayed release, and combinations thereof. In preferred embodiments, a fluorescent phospholipid compound of the present invention is combined with a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier to produce a pharmaceutical preparation for parenteral administration.

The term “pharmaceutically acceptable” means that which is useful in preparing a pharmaceutical composition that is generally safe, non-toxic, and neither biologically nor otherwise undesirable and includes that which is acceptable for veterinary as well as human pharmaceutical use. The terms “pharmaceutically acceptable salts” or “prodrugs” includes the salts and prodrugs of compounds that are, within the scope of sound medical judgment, suitable for use with subjects without undue toxicity, irritation, allergic response, and the like, commensurate with a reasonable benefit/risk ratio, and effective for their intended use, as well as the zwitterionic forms, where possible, of the compounds.

As defined herein, “contacting” means that the fluorescent phospholipid compound used in the present invention is introduced to a sample containing cells or tissue in a test tube, flask, tissue culture, chip, array, plate. microplate, capillary, or the like, and incubated at a temperature and time sufficient to permit binding of the fluorescent phospholipid compound to a receptor or intercalation into a membrane. Methods for contacting the samples with the fluorescent phospholipid compound or other specific binding components are known to those skilled in the art and may be selected depending on the type of assay protocol to be run. Incubation methods are also standard and are known to those skilled in the art.

In another embodiment, the term “contacting” means that the fluorescent phospholipid compound used in the present invention is introduced into a patient receiving treatment, and the compound is allowed to come in contact in vivo. In further embodiment, the term “contacting” means that the fluorescent phospholipid compound used in the present invention is introduced into a patient requiring screening for tumors, and the compound is allowed to come in contact in vivo.

The invention also generally relates to compositions comprising the compounds of the present invention.

As used herein, the term “composition” is intended to encompass a product comprising the specified ingredients in the specified amounts, as well as any product which results, directly or indirectly, from a combination of the specified ingredients in the specified amounts.

Compositions of the present invention may be prepared as a single unit dose or as a plurality of single unit doses. As used herein, a “unit dose” means a discrete amount of the composition comprising a predetermined amount of the active ingredient. The amount of the active ingredient is generally equal to the dosage of the active ingredient that would be administered to a patient or a fraction thereof.

As used herein, “pharmaceutical composition” means therapeutically effective amounts of the tumor-specific phospholipid ether analog together with suitable diluents, preservatives, solubilizers, emulsifiers, and adjuvants, collectively “pharmaceutically-acceptable carriers.” As used herein, the terms “effective amount” and “diagnostically effective amount” refer to the quantity of active agent sufficient to yield a desired effect without undue adverse side effects such as toxicity, irritation, or allergic response. The specific “effective amount” will vary with such factors as the particular condition being diagnosed, the physical condition of the subject, the species of the subject, the nature of concurrent therapy (if any), and the specific formulations employed and the structure of the compounds or its derivatives. The optimum effective amounts can be readily determined by one of ordinary skill in the art with routine experimentation.

Compositions of the present invention may be liquids or lyophilized or otherwise dried formulations and include diluents of various buffer content (e.g., Tris-HCl, acetate, phosphate), pH and ionic strength, additives such as albumin or gelatin to prevent absorption to surfaces, detergents (e.g., Tween 20™, Tween 80™, Pluronic F68™, bile acid salts), solubilizing agents (e.g., glycerol, polyethylene glycerol), anti-oxidants (e.g., ascorbic acid, sodium metabisulfite), preservatives (e.g., Thimerosal™, benzyl alcohol, parabens), bulking substances or tonicity modifiers (e.g., lactose, mannitol), covalent attachment of polymers such as polyethylene glycol to the protein, complexation with metal ions, or incorporation of the material into or onto particulate preparations of polymeric compounds such as polylactic acid, polglycolic acid, hydrogels, etc, or onto liposomes, microemulsions, micelles, unilamellar or multilamellar vesicles, erythrocyte ghosts, or spheroplasts. Such compositions will influence the physical state, solubility, stability, rate of in vivo release, and rate of in vivo clearance. Controlled or sustained release compositions include formulation in lipophilic depots (e.g., fatty acids, waxes, oils).

In a preferred embodiment, compositions of the present invention comprise a compound of the present invention, polysorbate, ethanol, and saline.

Also encompassed by the invention are methods of administering particulate compositions coated with polymers (e.g., poloxamers or poloxamines). Other embodiments of the compositions incorporate particulate forms protective coatings, protease inhibitors or permeation enhancers for various routes of administration, including topical, parenteral, pulmonary, nasal and oral. In some embodiments, the pharmaceutical composition is administered parenterally, paracancerally, transmucosally, tansdermally, intramuscularly, intravenously, intradermally, subcutaneously, intraperitonealy, intraventricularly, intracranially and intratumorally.

Further, as used herein “pharmaceutically acceptable carriers” are well known to those skilled in the art and include, but are not limited to, 0.01-0.1 M and preferably 0.05M phosphate buffer or 0.9% saline. Additionally, such pharmaceutically acceptable carriers may be aqueous or non-aqueous solutions, suspensions, and emulsions. Examples of non-aqueous solvents are propylene glycol, polyethylene glycol, vegetable oils such as olive oil, and injectable organic esters such as ethyl oleate. Aqueous carriers include water, alcoholic/aqueous solutions, emulsions or suspensions, including saline and buffered media.

Parenteral vehicles include sodium chloride solution, Ringer's dextrose, dextrose and sodium chloride, lactated Ringer's and fixed oils. Intravenous vehicles include fluid and nutrient replenishers, electrolyte replenishers such as those based on Ringer's dextrose, and the like. Preservatives and other additives may also be present, such as, for example, antimicrobials, antioxidants, collating agents, inert gases and the like.

Controlled or sustained release compositions according to the invention include formulation in lipophilic depots (e.g. fatty acids, waxes, oils). Also comprehended by the invention are particulate compositions coated with polymers (e.g. poloxamers or poloxamines) and the compound coupled to antibodies directed against tissue-specific receptors, ligands or antigens or coupled to ligands of tissue-specific receptors. Other embodiments of the compositions according to the invention incorporate particulate forms, protective coatings, protease inhibitors or permeation enhancers for various routes of administration, including parenteral, pulmonary, nasal and oral.

Compounds modified by the covalent attachment of water-soluble polymers such as polyethylene glycol, copolymers of polyethylene glycol and polypropylene glycol, carboxymethyl cellulose, dextran, polyvinyl alcohol, polyvinylpyrrolidone or polyproline are known to exhibit substantially longer half-lives in blood following intravenous injection than do the corresponding unmodified compounds (Abuchowski et al, 1981; Newmark et al., 1982; and Katre et al., 1987). Such modifications may also increase the compound's solubility in aqueous solution, eliminate aggregation, enhance the physical and chemical stability of the compound, and greatly reduce the immunogenicity and reactivity of the compound. As a result, the desired in vivo biological activity may be achieved by the administration of such polymer-compound abducts less frequently or in lower doses than with the unmodified compound.

The pharmaceutical preparation can comprise the the fluorescent phospholipid compound alone, or can further include a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier, and can be in solid or liquid form such as tablets, powders, capsules, pellets, solutions, suspensions, elixirs, emulsions, gels, creams, or suppositories, including rectal and urethral suppositories. Pharmaceutically acceptable carriers include gums, starches, sugars, cellulosic materials, and mixtures thereof. The pharmaceutical preparation containing the fluorescent phospholipid compound can be administered to a patient by, for example, subcutaneous implantation of a pellet. In a further embodiment, a pellet provides for controlled release of tumor-specific phospholipid ether analog over a period of time. The preparation can also be administered by intravenous, intraarterial, or intramuscular injection of a liquid preparation oral administration of a liquid or solid preparation, or by topical application. Administration can also be accomplished by use of a rectal suppository or a urethral suppository.

The pharmaceutical preparations administrable by the invention can be prepared by known dissolving, mixing, granulating, or tablet-forming processes. For oral administration, the tumor-specific phospholipid ether analogs or their physiologically tolerated derivatives such as salts, esters, N-oxides, and the like are mixed with additives customary for this purpose, such as vehicles, stabilizers, or inert diluents, and converted by customary methods into suitable forms for administration, such as tablets, coated tablets, hard or soft gelatin capsules, aqueous, alcoholic or oily solutions. Examples of suitable inert vehicles are conventional tablet bases such as lactose, sucrose, or cornstarch in combination with binders such as acacia, cornstarch, gelatin, with disintegrating agents such as cornstarch, potato starch, alginic acid, or with a lubricant such as stearic acid or magnesium stearate.

Examples of suitable oily vehicles or solvents are vegetable or animal oils such as sunflower oil or fish-liver oil. Preparations can be effected both as dry and as wet granules. For parenteral administration (subcutaneous, intravenous, intra-arterial, or intramuscular injection), the tumor-specific phospholipid ether analogs or their physiologically tolerated derivatives such as salts, esters. N-oxides, and the like are converted into a solution, suspension, or expulsion, if desired with the substances customary and suitable for this purpose, for example. solubilizers or other auxiliaries. Examples are sterile liquids such as water and oils, with or without the addition of a surfactant and other pharmaceutically acceptable adjuvants. Illustrative oils are those of petroleum, animal, vegetable, or synthetic origin, for example, peanut oil, soybean oil, or mineral oil. In general, water, saline, aqueous dextrose and related sugar solutions, and glycols such as propylene glycols or polyethylene glycol are preferred liquid carriers, particularly for injectable solutions.

The preparation of pharmaceutical compositions which contain an active component is well understood in the art. Such compositions may be prepared as aerosols delivered to the nasopharynx or as injectables, either as liquid solutions or suspensions; however, solid forms suitable for solution in or suspension in, liquid prior to injection can also be prepared. The preparation can also be emulsified. Active therapeutic ingredients are often mixed with excipients which are pharmaceutically acceptable and compatible with the active ingredient. Suitable excipients are, for example, water, saline, dextrose, glycerol, ethanol, or the like or any combination thereof.

In addition, the composition can contain minor amounts of auxiliary substances such as wetting or emulsifying agents, pH buffering agents which enhance the effectiveness of the active ingredient.

Methods of Use

The compounds of the present invention may be used in a variety of diagnostic and therapeutic methods.

In one embodiment, the compounds may administered to the patient via either the enteral or parenteral routes (i.e., orally or via IV) for the endoscopic determination of the presence of internal malignancy. Examples include, but are not limited to, endoscopic diagnosis of malignancy in the colon, rectum, small bowel, esophagus, stomach, duodenum, uterus, pancreas and common bile duct, bronchi, esophagus, mouth, sinus, lung, bladder, kidney, abdominal cavity or thoracic (chest) cavity.

In a preferred embodiment, the invention provides a method for endoscopically distinguishing a benign tissue from a malignant tissue in a selected region by using an endoscope having at least two wavelength in a patient comprising the steps of: (a) administering a fluorescently labeled compound to the patient; (b) using a first technique to produce a visualization of the anatomy of the selected region using the first wavelength of an endoscope; (c) using a second technique to produce a visualization of the distribution of fluorescence produced by the fluorescently labeled compound; and (d) comparing the visualization of the anatomy of the selected region by the first wavelength to the visualization of the distribution of fluorescence by the second wavelength produced by the fluorescently labeled compound thereby distinguishing a benign tissue from malignant tissue. In this embodiment, preferably, the selected region is the gastro-intestinal tract and the respiratory tract. Preferably, a fluorescent phospholipid compound is injected intravenously a few hours before performing endoscopic examinations; more preferably from about 1 hour to about 4 hours.

In another embodiment, the compounds may be used to aid in the selection of biopsy tissues in the above-listed internal malignancies.

In yet another embodiment, the compounds may be administered to the patient via either the enteral or parenteral routes or via topical application for the visual and/or microscopically aided determination of the presence of malignant lesions on the skin. Examples include, but are not limited to, differentiating between benign and malignant lesions on the skin.

In another embodiment, the compounds may be used to aid in the selection of biopsy tissues in the above-listed skin malignancies.

In one embodiment, the invention generally relates to a A method of selecting a biopsy tissue in a region suspected of having a malignancy comprising (a) administering to a patient a fluorescent phospholipid ether compound; (b) using a first technique to produce a visualization of the anatomy of said region suspected of having said malignancy using the first wavelength of an endoscope; (c) using a second technique to produce a visualization of the distribution of fluorescence produced by the fluorescent phospholipid ether compound; and (d) comparing the visualization of the anatomy of said region suspected of having said malignancy by the first wavelength to the visualization of the distribution of fluorescence by the second wavelength produced by the fluorescent phospholipid ether compound thereby distinguishing a benign tissue from malignant tissue and allowing to choose the biopsy tissue.

In yet another embodiment, the compounds may be used to aid in the determination of malignant tissue margins during operative resection or Mohs surgery of such lesion.

In another embodiment, the compounds may be administered to the patient via either the enteral or parenteral routes (i.e. orally or IV) for the visual and or microscopic-aided determination of the presence of malignant tissue at the borders of known malignancies during surgery. Examples include, but are not limited to, the intraoperative determination of the borders of a malignancy to aid the complete biopsy and/or surgical resection of said malignancy. These methods can be used for any malignancy in any tissue of the human body.

In yet another embodiment, the compounds may be used to determine the presence of residual malignant stem cells in a pathological specimen that has been excised from the body of the patient and/or to determine the presence of residual cancer stem cells in situ in a patient.

For example, in one embodiment, the invention provides a method of determining the presence of residual malignant stem cells in a patient undergoing cancer therapy comprising (a) administering to a patient undergoing said cancer therapy the fluorescent phospholipid compound according to any of claims 1 through 4; (b) visualizing the tissue that was determined to be malignant prior to said cancer therapy; and (c) assessing accumulation of the fluorescent phospholipid compound in said tissue, wherein an accumulation of said fluorescent phospholipid compound in said tissue indicates a possible presence of residual malignant stem cells.

In yet another embodiment, the invention provides a method of determining the presence of residual malignant stem cells in a patient undergoing cancer therapy comprising (a) excising a pathological specimen from a patient undergoing said cancer therapy; b) incubating said pathological specimen with the fluorescent phospholipid compound according to any of claims 1 through 4; and (c) visualizing the distribution of said fluorescent phospholipid compound in said pathological specimen; wherein an accumulation of said fluorescent phospholipid compound in said specimen indicates a possible presence of residual malignant stem cells.

In yet another embodiment, the provided compounds may be used for tumor therapy response monitoring. In a preferred embodiment, the invention provides a method of monitoring response to a tumor therapy comprising (a) administering to a patient prior to said tumor therapy the fluorescent phospholipid compound according to any of claims 1 through 4; (b) providing said tumor therapy; (c) providing the fluorescent phospholipid compound according to any of claims 1 through 4 after the tumor therapy; and (d) assessing difference in accumulation of the fluorescent phospholipid compound from step (a) and step (c), wherein a greater accumulation of the phospholipid compound in step (a) versus lesser accumulation in step (c) indicates a positive response to the treatment and/or an effective treatment methodology.

The invention will further be described with the following examples. These examples are described for illustrative purposes only and should not be deemed to narrow or limit the scope of the present invention.

EXAMPLES Example 1 Synthesis of 18-[p-(4,4-difluoro-4-bora-3a,4a-diaza-s-indacene-8-yl)-phenyl]-octadecyl phosphocholine (CLR1501)

The synthesis of CLR1501 was performed using Liebeskind-Srogl cross-coupling reaction (Liebeskind L S, Srogl J. Org. Lett., 2002, 4, 979-981) of 18-[p-(dihydroxyboryl)-phenyl]-octadecyl phosphocholine 2 with 8-thiomethyl-BODIPY 1 according to the published procedure (Pena-Cabrera E. et al. Org. Lett., 2007, 9, 3985-3988, J. Org. Chem., 2009, 74, 2053-2058).

Pd₂(dba)₃=tris-(dibenzylideneacetone) dipalladium (0)

8-(Thiomethyl-4,4-difluoro-4-bora-3a,4a-diaza-s-indacene 1 was synthesized according to the literature procedure (Goud T. V., Tutar A., Bieliman J. F. Tetrahedron, 2006, 62, 5084-5091).

A 20-ml round-bottom flask, equipped with a stir bar, was charged with 18-[p-(dihydroxyboryl)-phenyl]-octadecyl phosphocholine 2 (194 mg, 0.35 mmol), 8-(thiomethyl-4,4-difluoro-4-bora-3a,4a-diaza-s-indacene 1 (166 mg, 0.7 mmol), CuTC (133 mg, 0.7 mmol), Pd₂(dba)₃ (13 mg, 0.014 mmol) and TFP (16 mg, 0.07 mmol). The flask was evacuated under high vacuum for 15 min, refilled with dry nitrogen, and degassed methanol (5 ml) was added to the flask. The reaction mixture was stirred at 50° C. for 1.5 h, then cooled to the room temperature, diluted with 3-4 ml of chloroform and loaded on the silica gel column. The column was eluted with chloroform-methanol mixture (9:1, 8:2, 5:5) and finally with chloroform-methanol-water (65:25:4). Fractions containing product were combined, evaporated and the dark-red residue was dried under high vacuum. Yield of CLR1501: 169 mg (69%).

Example 2 Synthesis of CLR1502 Compound

In air, 18-[p-(dihydroxyboryl)-phenyl]octadecyl phosphocholine (126 mg, 0.23 mmol), IR-775 chloride (177 mg, 0.34 mmol), powdered potassium carbonate (94 mg, 0.68 mmol) and Pd-PEPPSI-IPr (5 mg, 0.007 mmol) were weighed into a 10 mL round-bottom flask, and the flask was kept under high vacuum for 30 min. The flask was refilled with nitrogen and degassed methanol (7 ml) was added. The reaction mixture was stirred for 12 h at room temperature and checked by TLC for completion. The starting boronic acid was still present. More Pd-PEPPSI-IPr (1 mg) was added and stirring was continued for additional 10 h until completion. The reaction mixture was loaded onto silica gel column and eluted with CHCl₃-MeOH mixtures (9:1, 8:2, 5:5), 100 mL each and finally with CHCl₃-MeOH—H₂O (65:25:4), 188 mL and CHCl₃-MeOH—H₂O (100:65:15), 540 mL. Yield: 140 mg (44%).

CLR1502 can also be referred to as IR-775-CLR1501 conjugate. IR-775 is a commercial dye made by Sigma-Aldrich®.

While the other compounds have not yet been synthesized, it is envisioned that they can be easily synthesized with a reasonable expectation of success using known methods and the following teachings of the present invention:

Example 3 Prophetic Syntheses

Synthesis of BODIPY-modified alkyl phospholipids.

Synthesis of BODIPY-modified octadecyl phosphocholine without a phenyl ring between BODIPY fragment and alkyl chain is shown in Scheme 1. Synthesis can be performed according to the literature reference (C. Peters et al. J. Org. Chem., 2007, 72, 1842-1845). The synthesis is started from a long-chain acid chloride 3 which is converted into the dipyrromethene by reaction with 2,5-dimethylpyrrole. This compound is used for the introduction of the BF₂ bridge, providing the BODIPY intermediate 4 which is converted into the phosphocholine 5.

Synthesis of perifosine-like analog 10 is shown in Scheme 2. Condensation of 4-iodobenzaldehyde 6 with pyrrole in the presence of a catalytic amount of acid, followed by oxidation of 7 and chelation with BF₃ gives 8-(p-iodophenyl)-BODIPY intermediate 8 (Loudet A., Burgess K. Chem. Rev., 2007, 107, 4891-4932). In the Sonogashira reaction, this intermediate is cross-coupled with acetylenic phospholipid 9 bearing a perifosine head group. Subsequent hydrogenation of the triple bond provides fluorescent phospholipid 10.

Synthesis of fluorescent alkyl phosphocholine with non-symmetrically substituted BODIPY 13 is shown in Scheme 3. The BODIPY core 11 can be synthesized according to the published procedure (Li Z., Bittman R. J. Org. Chem., 2007, 72, 8376-8382). The rest of the synthesis is similar to the one shown in Scheme 2.

Scheme 4 provides an example of the synthesis of heteroaryl-fused BODIPY alkyl phospholipid 16. Hetreoaryl-fused BODIPY dyes have been described in the literature (Umezawa K, Matsui A, Nakamura Y. Citterio D, Suzuki K. Chem. Eur. J., 2009, 15, 1096-1106; Umezawa K. Nakamura H. Makino H, Citterio D, Suzuki K. J. Am. Chem. Soc., 2008, 130, 1550-1551), and they exhibit high extinction coefficients and high quantum yields in the far-red and near-IR regions of the spectrum. Synthesis of BODIPY intermediate 15 is based on the procedures provided in the literature (Umezawa K. Matsui A. Nakamura Y. Citterio D, Suzuki K. Chem. Eur. J., 2009, 15, 1096-1106; Goud T. V., Tutar A., Biellman J. F. Tetrahedron, 2006, 62, 5084-5091). The synthesis of fluorescent alkyl phosphocholine 16 is performed using Liebeskind-Srogl cross-coupling reaction (Liebeskind L S, Srogl J. Org. Lett., 2002, 4, 979-981) of 18-[p-(dihydroxyboryl)-phenyl]-octadecyl phosphocholine 2 with 8-thiomethyl-BODIPY 15 according to the published procedure (Pena-Cabrera E. et al. Org. Lett., 2007, 9, 3985-3988, J. Org. Chem., 2009, 74, 2053-2058).

The synthesis of the fluorescent alkyl phospholipid bearing constrained BODIPY chromophore is shown in Scheme 5. The constrained BODIPY dye which is incorporated into 18 was shown to have a sharper, red-shifted, and more intense fluorescence emission than the parent BF₂ dye (Kim H, Burghart A, Welch M B, Reibenspies J, Burgess K. Chem. Commun, 1999, 1889-1890; Loudet A., Burgess K. Chem. Rev., 2007, 107, 4891-4932). Synthesis of constrained BODIPY 17 is known in the literature ((Kim H, Burghart A, Welch M B, Reibenspies J, Burgess K. Chem. Commun, 1999, 1889-1890). The BODIPY compound 17 is cross-coupled with acetylenic alkyl phosphocholine 12 under conditions of Sonogashira reaction and the triple bond is hydrogenated to produce fluorescent phospholipid 18.

Synthesis of the Cyanine Dye-Modified Alkyl Phospholipids

This section describes prophetic synthesis of phospholipid ether analogs conjugated with cyanine dyes. Cyanines are popular sources of long-wavelength fluorophores with the excitation bands in the range of 600-900 nm (Goncalves M S. Chem. Rev., 2009, 109, 190-212; Ballou B, Ernst L A, Waggoner A S. Curr. Med. Chem., 2005, 12, 795-805; Frangioni J V. Curr. Opin. Chem. Biol., 2003, 7, 626-634; Mishra A. et al. Chem. Rev., 2000, 100, 1973-2011). Examples of phospholipid ether analogs conjugated to cyanine dyes include rigid (3) and non-rigid (XX) polymethyne structures.

Scheme 6 shows the synthesis of rigid cyanine-based fluorescent alkyl phospholipid 20. Synthesis of compound 19 is referenced in the literature (Goncalves M S. Chem. Rev., 2009, 109, 190-212). Palladium-catalyzed cross-coupling of 19 with 18-[p-(dihydroxyboryl)-phenyl]-octadecyl phosphocholine 2 provides fluorescent phospholipid 20.

Synthesis of fluorescent phospholipid conjugated with non-rigid cyanine dye is shown in Scheme 7. Compound 21 bearing two long-chain alcohols is converted into the bis-phosphocholine analog 22. Compound 22 is a bis-alkyl phosphocholine derivative of Indocyanine Green (ICG, also known as IR-125) which is the only cyanine fluorochrome approved by the FDA.

Another example shown in Scheme 8 includes mono-alkyl phosphocholine derivative of Indocyanine Green 24.

Example 4 In vitro Studies with CLR1501

Experimental Conditions

To study the distribution of CLR1501 in cancer skin cells versus normal skin cells, CLR1501 was introduced into skin melanoma (A375) and normal skin (704sk) cells, purchased from ATCC. Both cells were maintained at 37° C. in DMEM media supplemented with 10% FBS and 5% CO₂. Before imaging, the cells were removed from flasks with 0.25% trypsin and were allowed to grow overnight on the slides (Ibidi, microslides VI flat, Catalog No: 80626). The next day, the media was gently replaced with Phosphate Buffered Saline (PBS) and the cells were incubated with 7.5 μM of CLR1501 on DMEM media for 24 hours. CRL1501 was formulated with 0.4% of Polysorbate 20, 2% of ethanol and saline. After washing thoroughly with PBS, the cells were imaged using Bio-Rad Radiance 2100 MP Rainbow with 1 second exposure time.

Results

As FIGS. 1 a and 1 b demonstrate, in 704sk cells, the CLR 1501 appeared to be transported to the lysosomes where it was degraded (FIG. 1 b). A375 cells showed internalization of CLR1501 into numerous fluorescent vesicles that are scattered throughout the cytoplasm (FIG 1 a).

FIGS. 2 a and 2 b demonstrate early time uptake profiles of CLR1501 in A375 cells half an hour (FIG. 2 a) and one hour (FIG. 2 b) after incubation. As FIG. 2 a demonstrates, after half an hour, the signals are thin and limited at the plasma membrane. There are some endocytic vesicles formed near the plasma membrane. As FIG. 2 b demonstrates, within one hour, the signals are not concentrated solely in the plasma membrane: intracellular structures are also observed. There is also a thicker signal associated with the plasma membrane.

Similar experiments were performed on several other cancerous cell lines: colorectal adenocarcinoma, uterine carcinoma, pancreatic carcinoma, ovarian adenocarcinoma, glioblastoma, clear cell carcinoma, and prostate adenocarcinoma. For comparison reasons, normal fibroblast cells were incubated with CLR1501.

Briefly, cells were plated overnight in micro slides VI (Ibidi, Verona, Wis.). The next day the cells were incubated with 5 μM of CLR1501 for 24 hours at 37° C. The cells were washed with PBS before the images were taken. The images were obtained using Nikon A1R confocal microscope. The length of exposure and intensity of the laser were similar among samples. CLR1501 was obtained using Alexa Fluor 488 filters (488 nm excitation—520 nm emission wavelength).

Table 1 illustrates intensity of signal emitted by CLR1501 in cancerous cell lines versus normal cells.

TABLE 1 Relative intensity to Average grey intensity normal cells NFA (normal cells) 14.99 1 Caki-2 151.56 10.11 Ovcar-3 92.86 6.2 Panc-1 143.65 9.58 PC3 180.04 12.01

As Table 1 demonstrates, tumor cells took up CLR1501 6-12 times higher than normal fibroblast cells.

FIG. 2 c demonstrates the results for colorectal adenocarcinoma cell line (HCT-116);

FIG. 2 d demonstrates the results for uterine sarcoma cell line (MES SA/DX-5);

FIG. 2 e demonstrates the results for pancreatic carcinoma cell line (Mia Paca-2);

FIG. 2 f demonstrates the results for pancreatic carcinoma cell line (Panc-1);

FIG. 2 g demonstrates the results for ovarian adenocarcinoma cell line (Ovcar-3);

FIG. 2 h demonstrates the results for ovarian adenocarcinoma cell line (Ovcar-3);

FIG. 2 i demonstrates the results for glioblastoma cell line (U-87MG);

FIG. 2 j demonstrates the results for normal fibroblast cell line (NFA);

FIG. 2 k demonstrates the results for clear cell carcinoma cell line (Caki-2); and

FIG. 2 l demonstrates the results for prostate adenocarcinoma cell line (PC3).

FIGS. 2 c-2 i and 2 k-2 l demonstrate a significant uptake of CLR1501 in all of these cell lines. It is known that structurally related radioiodinated alkyl phosphocholine analog NM404 (18-p-(iodophenyl)-octadecyl phosphocholine) undergoes prolonged (>80 days in mouse models) and selective retention in a wide variety (37 out of 37) of xenograft and spontaneous primary and metastatic human and rodent tumor models. These experiments demonstrate that CLR1501, a fluorescent analog of NM404, displays a similar selective uptake and retention in tumor cell lines in vitro.

FIG. 3 demonstrates the results of an incubation of glioblastoma cells (U87MG) with CLR1501 for 48 hours in Eagle MEM media at 37° C. with 10% FBS and 5% CO₂. The following co-stained dyes were used: Hoechst 33342 (1 μg/mL) (nucleus; blue color), Mitotracker (25 nM) (mitochondria, red color) and Blue-White DPX (100 nM) (Endoplasmic Reticulum (ER), blue color) were diluted in PBS and added to the cells for 15 minutes. The cells were washed with PBS and imaged with Bio-Rad Radiance 2100 MP Rainbow.

The experiment demonstrated that that CLR1501 mostly accumulated in cytoplasm of the cells. The nucleus appeared blue while the red signals showed the distribution of mitochondria (colors are not reproduced on the photographs submitted with the PCT application). CLR1501 was co-localized with mitochondria and ER. The cyan signals (dark oval-shaped spots in FIG. 3) mostly distributed outside the nucleus near the nuclear membrane.

FIG. 4 demonstrates the results of co-culturing NFA cells and PC3 cells, incubating them with CLR1501 and co-staining them with nucleus stain and mitochondria marker. Briefly, NFA and PC3 cell lines were co-cultured overnight on micro slide VI (Ibidi, Verona, Wis.). The next day, the cells were incubated with 5 μM of CLR1501 for 24 hours at 37° C. in complete media. The next day after washing with PBS, the cells were co-stained with nucleus stain (Hoechst 33342) and mitochondria marker (Mitotracker), (Invitrogen, Carlsbad, Calif.). The cells were observed using Nikon A1R confocal microscope. CLR1501 was excited and detected using Alexa-Fluor 488 filter, while nucleus stain and mitochondria stain were excited and detected using DAPI filter and Texas-Red filter, respectively. CLR1501 was not co-localized with nucleus in both normal and tumor cell lines. However, CLR1501 was co-localized with mitochondria in PC3 cell line but not with NFA.

FIG. 5 demonstrates the results of co-culturing NFA cells and Caki-2 cells, incubating them with CLR1501 and co-staining them with nucleus stain and lysosome marker. Briefly, NFA and Caki-2 cell lines were co-cultured overnight on micro slide VI (Ibidi, Verona, Wis.). The next day, the cells were incubated with 5 μM of CLR1501 for 24 hours at 37° C. in complete media. The next day after washing with PBS, the cells were co-stained with nucleus stain (Hoechst 33342) and lysosome marker (Lyso-tracker), (Invitrogen, Carlsbad, Calif.). The cells were observed using Nikon A1R confocal microscope. CLR1501 was excited and detected using Alexa-Fluor 488 filter while nucleus stain and lysosome stain were excited and detected using DAPI and Texas-Red filter, respectively. CLR 1501 was not co-localized with nucleus in both normal and tumor cell lines. However, CLR1501 was co-localized with lysosome in Caki-2 cell line but minimally with NFA.

The in vitro experiments have also demonstrated that CLR1501 does not penetrate inside of the nucleus.

Example 5 In vivo Studies with CLR1501 and CLR1502

The inventors conducted in vivo studies of CLR1501 and CLR1502 distribution in athymic nude mice.

Athymic nude mice (Hsd: Athymic Nude-Fox1^(nu)), inoculated with Panc-1 (Pancreatic carcinoma), were injected with 150 μL of 6 mg/mL CLR1501 formulated in 0.4% Polysorbate 20, 2% ethanol and saline 24 hour and 96 hours prior to imaging. The fluorescence images were obtained using a Kodak In-Vivo Multispectral System FX. The system provides multispectral tuning of excitation light which is able to separate signals from the dye and from the body autofluorescence. Mice were anesthetized by inhalation of isofluorane. The dyes were excited at 570 nm.

FIG. 6 depicts the results of this experiment. Green signals show distribution of CLR1501 in tumors (marked with white arrows). The left image shows the mouse was injected 24 hours prior to imaging and the right image shows the mouse that was injected 96 hours prior to imaging. Black arrows show de-skinned area where CLR1501 accumulation can be seen in contrast.

The signal was found mostly in the tumors. However, signals were also found in some non-cancerous tissues, especially, skin. However, in the mouse injected 96 hours prior to imaging, the accumulation of CLR1501 in the tumor is more pronounced while the retention of the dye in other tissues is tremendously reduced.

Some mice were orally administered 150 μL of CLR1501 at 6 mg/mL, mixed with 100 μL of oil in water phase emulsion (canola oil/saline) 24 and 96 hours, prior to imaging. FIG. 7 demonstrates the images of the excised tumors:

A: Tumor from mouse received IV injection CLR1501 24 hours prior imaging;

B: Tumor from mouse received IV injection of CLR 1501 96 hours prior imaging;

C: Tumor from mouse received CLR 1501 orally 24 hours prior imaging; and

D: Tumor from mouse received CLR 1501 orally 96 hours prior imaging.

FIG. 8 depicts tumor co-localization of CLR1502 in HCT-116 tumor-bearing mouse. Athymic nude mouse (Crl, NU-Foxn1^(nu)) was purchased from Charles River (Charles River, Portage, Mich.). The mouse was inoculated with 2×10⁶ HCT-116 cells (human colorectal carcinoma). After 8 weeks, the mouse was injected with 1 mg of CLR1502 in 0.15 m solution. CLR1502 was excited at 780 and emitted at 800 nm. The intensity was monitored up to 48 hours using Pearl in vivo imaging system (Li-Cor Bioscience, Lincoln, Nebr.). At the end of 48 hours, organs from mouse were collected and imaged.

Over time, CLR1502 accumulated in tumor site, while it cleared out from the rest of normal organs, showing that CLR1502 is a tumor-specific imaging agent. The following organs were collected: heart, tumor, spleen, lung; GI tract (not flushed); skin, kidneys and liver.

FIG. 9 depicts tumor co-localization of CLR1502 in de-skinned Panc-1 tumor-bearing mouse. Athymic nude mouse (Crl, NU-Foxn1^(nu)) was purchased from Charles River (Charles River, Portage, Mich.). The mouse was inoculated with 1×10⁶ Panc-1 cells (human pancreatic carcinoma). After 8 weeks, the mouse was injected with 1 mg of CLR1501 in 0.15 mL solution. CLR1501 was excited at 480 and emitted at 520 nm. The intensity was monitored at 24 and 96 hours using Kodak in vivo imaging system (Carestream Health, Woodbridge, Conn.).

Over time, CLR1501 accumulated in tumor site, while it cleared out from the rest of normal organs. Skins surround tumors were removed to provide contrast signal from CLR1501. In this animal model, skin produces autofluorescence signal which overlaps with excitation and emission wavelengths of CLR1501.

FIG. 10 depicts tumor co-localization of CLR1501 in athymic nude mouse. Athymic nude mouse (Crl, NU-Foxn1^(nu)) was purchased from Charles River (Charles River, Portage, Mich.). The mouse was inoculated with 1×10⁶ Panc-1 cells (human pancreatic carcinoma) which were incubated with CLR1501 or Kodak X-Sight 761 or both CLR1501 and Kodak X-Sight 761 for 4 hours. The cells were harvested and inoculated in different spots. The signals from each dye were obtained using Kodak in vivo imaging system (Carestream Health, Woodbridge, Conn.). CLR1501 was excited at 480 and emitted at 520 nm while the Kodak X-Sight was excited at 750 and emitted at 830 nm.

This experiment showed that CLR1501 is taken up and retained in in vitro in cancer cells and continues to be retained in these cells after in vivo subcutaneous injection. 

We claim:
 1. A fluorescent phospholipid ether compound of formula:


2. A method of endoscopically diagnosing a malignancy comprising: administering to a patient the fluorescent phospholipid ether compound of claim 1; using a first technique to produce a visualization of the anatomy of the selected region using the first wavelength of an endoscope; using a second technique to produce a visualization of the distribution of fluorescence produced by the fluorescent phospholipid ether compound; and comparing the visualization of the anatomy of the selected region by the first wavelength to the visualization of the distribution of fluorescence by the second wavelength produced by the fluorescent phospholipid ether compound thereby distinguishing a benign tissue from malignant tissue.
 3. The method of claim 2 wherein said malignancy is determined in a bodily organ selected from the group consisting of colon, rectum, small bowel, esophagus, stomach, duodenum, uterus, pancreas and common bile duct, bronchi, esophagus, mouth, sinus, lung, bladder, kidney, abdominal cavity, and thoracic cavity.
 4. A method of selecting a biopsy tissue in a region suspected of having a malignancy comprising: administering to a patient a fluorescent phospholipid ether compound according to claim 1; using a first technique to produce a visualization of the anatomy of said region suspected of having said malignancy using the first wavelength of an endoscope; using a second technique to produce a visualization of the distribution of fluorescence produced by the fluorescent phospholipid ether compound; and comparing the visualization of the anatomy of said region suspected of having said malignancy by the first wavelength to the visualization of the distribution of fluorescence by the second wavelength produced by the fluorescent phospholipid ether compound thereby distinguishing a benign tissue from malignant tissue and allowing to choose the biopsy tissue.
 5. The method of claim 4 wherein said malignancy is determined in a bodily organ selected from the group consisting of colon, rectum, small bowel, esophagus, stomach, duodenum, uterus, pancreas and common bile duct, bronchi, esophagus, mouth, sinus, lung, bladder, kidney, abdominal cavity, and thoracic cavity.
 6. A method of diagnosing a skin malignancy comprising: (a) administering to a patient the fluorescent phospholipid compound according to claim 1; (b) visualizing the anatomy of the skin; and (c) distinguishing a benign tissue from a malignant tissue, wherein the malignant tissue displays significantly more fluorescence caused by the fluorescent phospholipid compound.
 7. A method of determining malignant tissue margins during a surgical resection of said malignant tissue comprising: (a) administering to a patient undergoing said surgical resection the fluorescent phospholipid compound according to claim 1; (b) visualizing the malignant tissue; and (c) determining the margins of said malignant tissue, wherein the malignant tissue displays significantly more fluorescence caused by the fluorescent phospholipid compound, and wherein the margins of more highly fluorescent region correspond to the margins of said malignant tissue.
 8. A method of determining the presence of residual malignant stem cells in a patient undergoing cancer therapy comprising: (a) administering to a patient undergoing said cancer therapy the fluorescent phospholipid compound according to claim 1; (b) visualizing the tissue that was determined to be malignant prior to said cancer therapy; and (c) assessing accumulation of the fluorescent phospholipid compound in said tissue, wherein an accumulation of said fluorescent phospholipid compound in said tissue indicates a possible presence of residual malignant stem cells.
 9. A method of determining the presence of residual malignant stem cells in a patient undergoing cancer therapy comprising: (a) excising a pathological specimen from a patient undergoing said cancer therapy; (b) incubating said pathological specimen with the fluorescent phospholipid compound according to claim 1; and (c) visualizing the distribution of said fluorescent phospholipid compound in said pathological specimen; wherein an accumulation of said fluorescent phospholipid compound in said specimen indicates a possible presence of residual malignant stem cells.
 10. A method of monitoring response to a tumor therapy comprising: (a) administering to a patient prior to said tumor therapy the fluorescent phospholipid compound according to claim 1; (b) providing said tumor therapy; (c) providing the fluorescent phospholipid compound according to claim 5 after the tumor therapy; and (d) assessing difference in accumulation of the fluorescent phospholipid compound from step (a) and step (c), wherein a greater accumulation of the phospholipid compound in step (a) versus lesser accumulation in step (c) indicates a positive response to the treatment and/or an effective treatment methodology. 